Along with increased physical activity, outdoor recreation offers the opportunity to socialize, an important advantage in itself. For example, birding includes various activities such as physical walking, visual and auditory interpretation, and conversations with other bird watchers, according to a 2010 report by Resources for the Future. The report also notes that the social environments of outdoor spaces, particularly the city parks, are accompanied by positive experiences. Physical outdoor activities can also increase community pride and provide an opportunity to meet people with similar interests, says Andrew Lepp, a professor at Kent State University.

Outdoor activities lead to greater self-confidence, better creativity and better self-image. appreciation, according to Lepp. Natural environments rejuvenate and soothe the mind, improve prospects and increase the positive effect. Artistic environments, on the other hand, can cause feelings of exhaustion, irritability, inattention and impulsivity, says Resources for the Future. Out of time, you can even help focus; Research in 2009 in the “Journal of Attention Disorders” shows that 20-minute walks through natural circumstances lead to better concentration.